A RIGHT ROYAL CELEBRATION!
Last Sunday was amazing as we celebrated Pentecost and the Queens 70th Jubilee. It was a nail-biting start with lots of prayer at the threat of torrential rain as the weather forecast deteriorated. We moved the service inside but were delighted as people flocked into church and over 200 joined us for what was a special service as we joined forces with Sports Village Church. Highlights were the re-enactment of Pentecost day with our Pais team and others speaking praises in their native tongues and in English – a powerful illustration of how the Holy Spirit breaks down barriers and unites us as one body. This was followed by the Coronation of Beth Walker, our very own Queen for the day – and we learnt of the significance of service to God and people through the example of our Queen.
Undeterred by the forecast we ventured out into the church grounds to discover the rain had abated and we enjoyed a dry afternoon with a feast of fun, food and friendship. Hundreds more people joined us and consumed a mountain of food including a BBQ with 500 burgers and sausages, scores of sandwiches, pasties, cakes and ice creams. And of course delicious cream teas in Church House. Thanks to Pauline, Stu, Troy, Julie, the Scout Leaders and a huge dedicated team of volunteers and everyone who so generously contributed food and finance.
There was a wonderful party atmosphere with fun activities for people of all ages. A host of crafts, games, challenges with lots of prizes to be won, a play zone for toddlers, and a sensory room. A selection of children’s bikes were repaired and given away for free by a skilled team of volunteers from Geared-Up, part of The Brick Charity in Wigan.
Throughout the afternoon there were performances from some of our very talented singers and musicians and our youth band on the stage outside and inside church. Huge thanks go to them and especially our techie team, who I know all worked tirelessly rehearsing and preparing for the day.
Inside church we were joined by our friends from the Isaiah 53 bookshop in Bolton and treated to a stunning display of artwork and photography.
I’ve since spoken to many people in our community who were simply blown away by the welcome and generosity they received, often commenting on how they couldn’t believe it was all given for free. Of course this gave an opportunity to explain that God’s love is freely given and so we do likewise.
All of this was only possible because of the dedication and kindness of so many people and I want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone for pulling together so magnificently and especially to Emma Nicholson for her excellent organisation.
This brings to a climax our Season of Return which started on Easter Sunday. It has been a time to rebuild and recommit to Christ Church after the challenges of the pandemic. The vision being to continuing growing our church long into the future so that we can make a bigger impact for good in our community and town.
